Increasingly, Brazil is choosing ultraviolet (UV) technology developed by a Canadian company as the treatment solution for its wastewater plants.

Trojan Technologies, Inc., has been awarded a contract valued at approximately $600,000 to supply UV systems to four wastewater plants in the state of Espirito Santo. Scheduled to be in operation early next year, the facilities will treat a total of 32 million gallons (121,000 cubic meters) of water a day.

Trojan also is the supplier of the largest UV wastewater treatment installation in Latin America. Located in the city of Curitiba (in the southern Brazilian state of Parana), the modern plant is now fully operational. It serves a population of 330,000 people and treats up to 36 million gallons (136,000 cubic metres) of water a day.

While Trojan has been active in Brazil for the past five years, these most recent contracts represent a significant increase in the company's business in the region. "The Brazilian water boards are now recognizing the advantages of UV technology and the fact that Trojan is a global leader in providing these solutions," said Trojan President and CEO Allan Bulckaert.

The country's growing interest in UV water treatment also was evident as more than 20 Brazilian engineers and officials arrived in London, Ontario, to visit Trojan's research, engineering and manufacturing facilities.

Ontario Environment Minister Chris Stockwell noted with pride that "the Brazilian delegation is here because Ontario is home to some of the most advanced and innovative technologies being used to protect water resources around the world."

The visiting delegation was organized by the Brazilian Association of Sanitary and Environmental Engineering, and the tour program was arranged by the Ontario Ministry of the Environment.

Trojan UV equipment is now installed in 10 wastewater plants in Brazil. "With the adoption of more stringent regulations governing wastewater treatment, Brazil represents enormous opportunity for Trojan in the future," Bulckaert explained.